2012 Lexus HS250h

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2012 Lexus HS250h, formatted as requested. The 2012 Lexus HS250h is a hybrid vehicle that aimed to blend fuel efficiency with Lexus luxury. It features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 187 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque. The HS250h is equipped with an electronically controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Owners often appreciate its comfortable ride and fuel economy, but some dislike its unconventional styling and limited rear passenger space.

Electric Motor

No Issues Found

Battery

• Hybrid Battery Degradation/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced fuel economy, decreased acceleration performance, warning lights on the dashboard (e.g., “Check Hybrid System,” “Hybrid System Malfunction”). The car might struggle to maintain speed uphill or accelerate quickly. In severe cases, the car may not start.
  • Solution: Replacement or reconditioning of the hybrid battery pack. A hybrid battery reconditioning service is when the battery pack is disassembled and each module is individually tested and either rebalanced or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $6,000+ for replacement, $800-$2,000 for reconditioning.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

CVT (Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission)

• CVT Transmission Failure/Shuddering
  • Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported issues with the CVT, including shuddering during acceleration, hesitation, and eventual transmission failure. The transmission might also exhibit unusual noises or difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, the solution could range from a software update to a complete transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,500 - $6,000+ for replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut/Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced ride quality, excessive bouncing, clunking noises from the suspension while driving over bumps, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the affected struts or shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per strut/shock, depending on location and shop.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Navigation System/Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The navigation screen can freeze, become unresponsive, or display incorrect information.
  • Solution: Software updates or replacement of the navigation unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,200+, depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sensor Failures (Oxygen, Mass Airflow, etc.)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling, stalling. The specific symptoms depend on which sensor is failing.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the faulty sensor, followed by replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per sensor, including labor.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Condensation
  • Description/Symptoms: Moisture buildup inside the headlight housing, reducing visibility.
  • Solution: Replacing the headlight assembly, resealing the headlight assembly or drilling a small hole in the lens to allow moisture to escape.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per headlight.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Sunroof Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Sunroof may get stuck, make excessive noise, or leak.
  • Solution: Cleaning and lubricating the sunroof tracks, or replacing the sunroof motor or assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+, depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2012 Lexus HS250h can be a reliable vehicle, but potential buyers should be aware of the reported issues. The most significant and costly concern is hybrid battery degradation or failure, followed by potential CVT transmission problems. Electrical issues with the navigation system and sensor failures can also occur. Suspension and sunroof issues are also reported. Overall, while some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, major issues like battery or transmission replacements can lead to high repair bills, making a pre-purchase inspection crucial.